LLM Programs

Practicing law in a global society demands a firm grasp of cross-border interests and implications of a nation's laws. Attorneys who advise international clients need to understand how to operate in various legal environments, and communicate and work effectively with lawyers and clients around the world. Our LLM degrees prepare lawyers for this challenge.

We offer four LLM degrees:

LLM in U.S. & Global Legal Studies - for foreign graduates only
This program is for students interested in U.S. law who hope to improve their legal research, writing and analytical skills. This is the best degree to prepare for a US bar exam. Students may also earn a certificate of concentration in the subject area of their choice. Required Coursework: Foreign Graduate Seminar, U.S. Legal Writing and Contracts for LLMs.

LLM in Intellectual Property Law - for foreign graduates only
This program is best for students interested in the doctrine and policy of U.S. intellectual property law, including patents, trademarks, copyrights and trade secrets. Required Coursework: Foreign Graduate Seminar, U.S. Legal Writing and Contracts for LLMs.

LLM in International Business Law - for foreign graduates only
This program is designed for students interested in the academic analysis and practical applications of U.S. business law and international business transactions. Required Coursework: Foreign Graduate Seminar, U.S. Legal Writing and Contracts for LLMs.

LLM in International Criminal Law - for both foreign and US graduates
Taught by leading experts in the field, this program provides students who hold a degree in law with an in-depth knowledge of international criminal law and procedure, international humanitarian law and national security law. It will equip them to practice international criminal law before international tribunals or national courts. The one-year program is based at our law school, but students have the option of taking their second semester at an international tribunal. The degree is also available on a part-time basis over two years.

Summer Language and Law Institute - for foreign graduates only
The Summer Language and Law Institute is an intensive four-week training experience exclusively for foreign legal professionals and students. The institute introduces students to the practice and study of law in the U.S., provides students with a practical introduction to U.S. legal research and analysis; and
improves students' English language skills through an integrated English for Legal Purposes program.

Our SJD degree is the most advanced legal degree for students who want to pursue independent study and research. The degree requires two years of full-time residence and the completion of a doctoral dissertation.

We offer two SJD tracks:

All Subjects - for foreign graduates only
The program prepares students to return to their home countries to teach law or work in law reform for their governments at the highest level. Our SJD graduates are trained to teach law and serve in these capacities. The three-year program requires full-time on-campus for the first two years.

Health Law - for both U.S. and foreign graduates
This degree is for lawyers who seek the highest degree in the specialized field of health law and wish to work in academia, research or health policy. The two-year program requires full-time attendance in residence for the first year. During the second year, the candidate will complete a doctoral dissertation. Candidates may take up to two additional years to complete the dissertation. More information.